Pollies visited timber operations in Kyogle and surrounds to see how environmental factors could work with the industry’s economics to strengthen sustainability.
The focus for the visit was state parliament’s inquiry into the sustainability of the timber and forest industry.
The industry employs nearly 1000 people in the Northern Rivers.
Hosted by Hurford Hardwood Australia’s executive director Andrew Hurford, State MP Janelle Saffin visited the family company’s Kyogle mill and its farm forestry property at Warrazambil.
“We learned about Hurfords’ model for sustainable forest management, which includes trialing Northern Rivers hardwood timber species, cell grazing cattle, protecting riparian zones and koala research,” Ms Saffin said.
“It is an example of how environmental and economic values can be harmonised.”
She was accompanied by shadow minister for natural resources Paul Scully and shadow minister for environment and heritage Kate Washington.
This articles appeared in the Richmond River Independent, 12 May 2021.
